The Rise Of NELK, Donald Trump & Global Chaos - Kyle Forgeard (4K)
Added: Jan 21, 2025
In this podcast episode, Kyle Forgeard, co-founder of the popular YouTube group NELK, shares insights into his journey, the evolution of his brand, and the broader socio-political landscape. The conversation touches on various topics, including the impact of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, the dynamics of social media, and the challenges of maintaining authenticity in a rapidly changing world.
Reflections on Canada and Trudeau's Leadership
Kyle begins by expressing his discontent with the current state of Canada, attributing much of the country's transformation to Trudeau's leadership. He feels that Canada has lost its cultural identity, citing issues like political correctness and immigration policies. Kyle believes that Canadians are yearning for a return to their roots and expresses optimism about a potential political shift, suggesting that figures like Pierre Poilievre could lead Canada toward a resurgence.
The Influence of Social Media and Content Creation
As a content creator, Kyle reflects on the changing landscape of social media and the rise of independent media. He notes that traditional news outlets are struggling to understand the appeal of platforms like YouTube and podcasts, where younger audiences are increasingly consuming content. Kyle emphasizes the importance of authenticity in this new media environment, contrasting it with the often disingenuous nature of mainstream politics.
Kyle shares his experiences with Donald Trump, highlighting the former president's ability to engage with people from all walks of life. He admires Trump's knack for eliciting reactions and believes that this quality has contributed to his enduring popularity. The conversation shifts to the impact of social media on political discourse, with Kyle noting that platforms like X are reshaping how information is disseminated and consumed.
The NELK Journey and Creative Process
Kyle recounts the early days of NELK, detailing the group's rise to fame through pranks and vlogs. He reflects on the challenges of maintaining a consistent creative output while navigating the pressures of fame. Kyle emphasizes the importance of teamwork, crediting his crew for their contributions to the brand's success. He describes the collaborative nature of their content creation process, where ideas are brainstormed collectively, and everyone plays a role in bringing those ideas to life.
The conversation delves into the mechanics of producing engaging content, with Kyle explaining the significance of titles and thumbnails in attracting viewers. He acknowledges the need for a polished final product while also recognizing the value of spontaneity and fun in their videos. Kyle expresses a desire to produce more content for NELK, driven by the positive feedback from their audience.
The Challenges of Leadership and Responsibility
As the leader of NELK, Kyle discusses the unique challenges that come with his role. He acknowledges the pressure to maintain a fun atmosphere while also being responsible for the team's well-being and productivity. Kyle reflects on the importance of setting boundaries and recognizing that he cannot be responsible for everyone’s actions. He emphasizes the need for a supportive team dynamic, where everyone is invested in the group's success.
Kyle also touches on the impact of travel on his mental health, noting that the constant movement can be exhausting. He shares how he has learned to prioritize self-care and maintain a routine to combat burnout. Despite the challenges, Kyle remains passionate about his work and is motivated by the joy of creating content and connecting with his audience.
The Future of NELK and Business Ventures
Looking ahead, Kyle expresses excitement about the future of NELK and their business ventures, particularly Happy Dad, their hard seltzer brand. He envisions building Happy Dad into a billion-dollar company while continuing to produce engaging content for their audience. Kyle believes that the synergy between their content and business endeavors will drive their success in the coming years.
The conversation concludes with Kyle reflecting on the importance of authenticity and the need for creators to stay true to themselves. He acknowledges the challenges of navigating the ever-changing landscape of social media but remains committed to delivering quality content that resonates with their audience.